How to numb area for a tattoo?

Question

I want to get a tattoo soon. The problem is, I am a big wuss when it comes to pain. Seriously. For example, I went to the doctor for a phyical & I almost cried from the simple shot I got there lol. I heard about using some things that can numb the area so that getting the tat wouldn't hurt so much. I'm wondering, what can I use to numb? Which works best? I heard about linocaine, A & D ointment, clove oil, Elma, and NSAIDs such as Postan or Paracetamols. Do any of these help? If so, how long do they last? Is there anything else than may help the pain? Has anyone used anything to help numb or ease the pain? The first tat I want to get isn't that big, so it shouldn't take that much time. Please help!!!! AND BY THE WAY, I DON'T NEED TO HEAR LECTURES ABOUT DONT GET A TAT IF YOU CANT HANDLE PAIN. THATS BESIDE THE POINT. k thanks

Answer 1

There is topical lidocaine but the discomfort is part of the right of passage in getting a tattoo.

Reputable tattoo shops WILL NOT TATTOO YOU IF YOU ARE DRUNK!! Most won't if you have had ANYTHING to drink and you sign an paper stating you are sober.

The topical ointments or creams are not going to lessen it that much, may irritate you more and you are still going to "experience" the process of getting inked.

The first 5 min. are the most intense then endorphines kick in and you are fine. Might feel a twinge now and then but a good tattoo artist doesn't tattoo with a heavy hand or roughly. Mine does such a great job that I barely know he is inking me.

Not all areas on your body will be that sensitive and everyone is different. Most people have no problem on their backs. Me, my shoulder area is fine but from the shoulder blades down it hurts. My inner wrist, inner forearm and ankle, not so much. Heck, my good sized one on the forearm didn't bother me at all - no pain, zip, zero, nada.


Suck it up and go with it. You earn your ink. If you are that worried don't do it. I hate needles - don't like injections - have no problem with tats and I'm an old lady (55) got 1st tat at 50 and now have 5 tats.